One of the UK’s first ever virtual GP surgeries has opened at a Bristol chemist in a bid to save costs and cut patient waiting times.

The Easton Day & Night Chemist in Stapleton Road launched the new private service – which offers patients instant access to a qualified GP - this month.

Provided by MedicSpot Virtual GP Clinics, the virtual consultation allows patients to be examined by a doctor over a Skype-like video link, after paying a £39 fee.

Digital diagnostic equipment hooked up to the computer, including a stethoscope, pulse oximeter and webcam, enables the doctor to perform a “full and thorough examination” despite being up to hundreds of miles away.